About Erin W.

About Erin

I have a Master's in Vocal Performance from Portland State University, and over a decade of vocal training and performance experience.

I teach voice lessons to kids, teenagers, and adults.

My voice students range in ability from absolute beginner to intermediate with significant previous musical and vocal training. I have helped the beginning students learn to match pitch and read notes on the staff. My voice students learn to sing with purer vowels, increased breath support, and to access greater vocal range.

I teach beginning piano to all ages. I teach students as young as 5 as long as they are able to stay focused for the duration of a half hour lesson. Most of my piano students are in the 7 -10 range, but I teach some beginning adults as well.

*** Lesson Details ***Voice students will learn to improve their technique thr

ough proper breathing, correct vowels, space, and resonance. I teach repertoire based on the students' interest, but I am well versed in classical and operatic repertoire in English, French, German, and Italian, as well as some musical theatre and jazz. I also teach pop songs for those who are interested. I can help you improve your technique for whatever style of music you want to sing.

Piano students will learn to read music, play with correct form, learn scales, and improve their musicianship skills. I teach out of lesson books (mostly Faber) to improve technique, but I want students to learn supplemental pieces that are fun for them as well.

I hope to share with you the same joy I get from making music!

*** Studio Equipment ***My studio at home has a piano, my music library, a large mirror for aiding the student in observing their vocal habits.

*** Travel Equipment ***For in home lessons, students will need to have a keyboard or a piano in a space free of distractions. Students should have a neat, three ring binder to hold any loose sheet music. Piano students need a regular notebook to write lesson assignments.

Reviews

Cheri R. May 2, 2017·Broadway Singing·Online

Katheryne U. April 17, 2017·Opera Voice·In studio

Great first lesson! I feel like I learned a lot about technique and pronunciation. I get really nervous to sing in front of people but Erin made me feel comfortable. I definitely recommend her if you want to not only sing better but also learn the lingo, techniques, and theory. Looking forward to our next lesson :)

anastasia March 28, 2017·Broadway Singing·Online

awsome and caring

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Erin W.

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Erin W.

Portland, OR 97217

(10)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Julia V.

For 'classic' Broadway show tunes check out "The Singer's Musical Theatre Anthology" published by Hal Leonard. Bring sheet music to start with from your favorite Broadway musicals and movie songs - found in music stores or on-line. Both of these styles benefit from the strong tone and great delivery of a classical singing technique.I recommend adults take 45" - 1 hour lessons weekly for skill building. The price of lessons DECREASES by 10% after each 5 lesson purchased for the first 15 lessons. Studio policy is located at VaaraMusic.com.

About Julia

I have a Master’s in Opera Performance from the Boston and New England Conservatories as well as graduating from Vocal Performance programs at Boston University and Western Washington University. I have sung professionally with Boston Lyric Opera, Children’s Theater Companies, churches and synagogue and have toured on the east coast as well as Athens, Greece. Premiering new music is a specialty. I can help you prepare your pieces for auditions. My students have successful auditions for college opera and music theater programs, and as choir soloists.

Students gain a larger vocal range and an easy, natural way of singing whether it is in a rock band, choir or as a soloist. Together we find the joy of singing while building a solid technique.

I have worked with small children as a Musikgarten teacher and have toured artist residency

programs which introduce children to music and theater in schools. I was adjunct faculty at the College of St. Benedict/St. John’s University and local music studios as well as maintaining my private teaching practice.

*** Lesson Details ***I am persistent and positive! Working and performing with singers and master teachers has helped me to be a resourceful teacher who understands the process of becoming a singer. I believe that a sense of fun and play helps you to accomplish your goals quickly. For beginners you will learn how the voice works and how to care for and develop your instrument, I recommend adults take 45" - 1 hour lessons weekly for skill building. The price of lessons DECREASES by 10% after each 5 lesson purchased for the first 15 lessons. Studio policy is located at VaaraMusic.com. We will choose music that interests you and helps to build your voice starting with basics before moving to more complex and challenging music. Understanding music theory and sight-reading will help you get the most out of your singing. After 3 - 6 months you should have a good command of breathing and an understanding of how to sing with an expressive tone.For the advanced student, I can help you work on trouble spots and give you tools to help with the changes that voices naturally go through. I look forward to giving you my full focus and celebrating your growth and accomplishments!

*** Studio Equipment ***Condo w/ open area with piano. Visitor's parking lot w/ seating in studio for parents to listen. Parents with younger siblings can use play areas outside.Basic library of vocal music, giving the student a way to sample different kinds of songs before purchasing books or downloading songs on their own. Music stand, iPhone plug-in/Amp for accompaniments and examples you want me to hear.

*** Travel Equipment ***I provide a basic library of vocal music at my home studio and will bring targeted books with me. Students should print out their favorite popular songs from such services as Music Notes website.I expect my students to provide a keyboard, music stand and notebook as well as a low distraction environment.

*** Specialties ***As an opera and musical theater, Oratorio and church singer, I help singers of all levels improve within their genre from popular music to opera. A good singing technique will help performers in any style stay healthy and enjoy an expressive singing instrument.

...

Reviews

Stephanie June 20, 2017·Opera Voice·In studio

Julia is a joy and wonder to work with. She teaches with phenomenal skill and great heart, which makes each lesson easy, productive and fun while really working hard. I look forward to every session and to seeing her as well.

Anne Marie January 3, 2017·Speaking Voice·In studio

Warm welcome led into warm lesson. Already have 3 key things to work on!

Julia V.

Julia V.

About Don C.

All that I request from a student is a desire to learn. I will work with you at your pace to achieve the musical goals you have. Each student begins at a different level.

The first lesson will focus on your musical background. If you are a beginner, that's no problem. I specialize in working with beginning students to teach them all the joy and satisfaction there is in mastering an instrument.

I love to laugh and the lessons are very laid back and fun, but I desire that a student move forward and learn new techniques.

You will be playing simple songs after your first lesson. I'm asked many times by students "how long will it take until I'm good." My answer is: that is in direct proportion to the amount of time you dedicate to practicing. After a month or two, you will know how to read music and have a basic understanding of music theory.

I use various curriculum depending on the student's need. For voice, the curriculum is individually tailored to the students level and ...

About Don

Don brings over 36 years of teaching experience in Piano, Voice, and Guitar. His relaxed and humorous approach to music encourages students to embrace a love for the musical art.

With 2 American Idol finalists to his credit, along with numerous students who have gone on to professional careers in theater, television, and film. He also has 16 years experience as Musical Director for over 45 theatrical productions in Southern California, Oregon, and Washington.

He has received an award in Southern California for Outstanding Musical Direction in a theatrical production of "The King and I." He is currently the vocal coach for Magenta Theater and Musical Director for Metropolitan Performing Arts Academy, both in Vancouver, WA.

He has traveled the US with The Continental Singers, an international singing group, been a choral director

in churches and various performing groups. He has worked as a recording studio engineer, live sound engineer, and theater sound designer.

Don strives to bring out the best in each student. Whether a beginner, intermediate, or advanced student, Don will expand your musical horizon and styles to new levels.

*** Lesson Details ***All that I request from a student is a desire to learn. I will work with you at your pace to achieve the musical goals you have. Each student begins at a different level.

The first lesson will focus on your musical background. If you are a beginner, that's no problem. I specialize in working with beginning students to teach them all the joy and satisfaction there is in mastering an instrument.

I love to laugh and the lessons are very laid back and fun, but I desire that a student move forward and learn new techniques.

You will be playing simple songs after your first lesson. I'm asked many times by students "how long will it take until I'm good." My answer is: that is in direct proportion to the amount of time you dedicate to practicing. After a month or two, you will know how to read music and have a basic understanding of music theory.

I use various curriculum depending on the student's need. For piano, I generally use Alfred Methods. For guitar, Hal Leonard or Mel Bay. For voice, the curriculum is individually tailored to the students level and goals.

Reviews

Will S. July 27, 2017·Piano·In studio

The first lesson went well. Don seems to be very good with teaching kids. He makes learning piano fun.

Frank N. June 21, 2017·Piano·In studio

Being a Senior, I felt that a person who was close to my age would be better for me. I feel now that we would have gotten along even if I was 10 years old. Don brought me to a comfortable level from the outset with his style and knowledge.

Kennedy H. June 2, 2017·Piano·In home

Don has been a great instructor so far! We're excited to see the improvements our daughter has shown. His positive nature has built up her confidence immensely. Would highly recommend ☺️

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Don C.

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Don C.

Vancouver, WA 98665

(9)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Emily W.

Although I teach the same fundamental technique for all kinds of singing, I am well versed in the unique stylistic needs of Broadway singing. I use simple exercises to teach my students how to expand their range, build strong breath control, and learn how to belt in a healthy way. I also specialize in acting for singers. When working on musical theatre, I challenge my students to study and identify with their character in order to produce stronger singing and a stronger performance.

About Emily

I teach to help people find their inner rock star. Everyone can sing! But for many people, fear is an obstacle. I know firsthand how much courage it takes to stand up and sing. I teach to help others experience the same healing I have experienced through music. My approach to singing is informed by my education and years of performance experience. I teach my students how to embrace their fears and move through them to the other side. I also facilitate a supportive student/teacher relationship based upon mutual respect and kindness. Most importantly, I encourage my students to trust themselves and their innate musical gifts. This develops their self confidence and ultimately leads them to their purest, most authentic sound.

I also teach the more experienced singer how to fine tune their instrument. Everyone can learn to sing with ease.

I understand the frustration that comes from wanting to sing without tension or feeling restricted in range or ability. I spent years feeling unsure about my vocal abilities until I learned how to develop a truly solid vocal foundation. I can teach you the tools that I continue to use for my own singing today.

I lived and breathed music and singing throughout my childhood, and I continue to today. I have over fifteen years of classical music training and performance experience. I attended California State University Northridge where I studied classical voice, art song, and opera performance. Since attaining my Bachelor of Music in Vocal Arts I have performed opera and musical theatre professionally across Los Angeles. I have since left opera performance to focus on my true musical passions: pop, R&B, jazz, musical theatre, and teaching.

**Lesson Details**I tailor my teaching to each student's needs and desires. I teach all levels of singing, child to adult, beginner to advanced. If you are a beginner, I will quickly help you understand and access your instrument. If you are a more experienced singer, I will help you identify your opportunities for growth and we start from there. I focus on releasing tension and building a strong core foundation. You will learn how to develop consistent breath control, expand your range, and grow your voice into a powerful and beautiful sound! **Please note: I am not a trained pianist or accompanist. I focus on vocal technique, vocal production, and vocal expression. I do not accompany my students on the piano when we work on songs/repertoire.**

**Studio Equipment**PianoAcoustic guitarMusic standZoomH2 microphone and recording deviceAccess to a wide selection of popular, classical, and musical theatre sheet music

**Specialties**I teach the same technique for all styles of singing - pop, R&B, jazz, gospel, musical theatre, and classical. I help my students make minor changes for each style, but the core foundational technique remains the same. I specialize in breath support, vocal chord closure, range expansion, vocal register negotiation, body alignment, relieving tension, healthy belting, emotional support, and acting for singers.

...

Reviews

Emma August 10, 2017·Singing·In home

As a college student in a women's chorus, I have already learned how to sing chorus-style at school. This summer I took lessons with Emily in order to gain technique and confidence in more contemporary singing. In addition to providing a flexible schedule and an accommodating environment in her home, Emily worked with my specific needs and taught me a lot in a short amount of time. She does a great job of explaining how sound resonates within your mouth and articulating how to "tune your instrument" so that your voice travels freely and sounds strong. Three months ago I had no idea how to belt, and now I have a pretty solid understanding of how it works. If you are practicing a specific song, Emily can communicate the specific techniques used by the artist, as well as help you decide what works well for your own voice. I couldn't imagine a better experience this summer than learning from Emily.

Rosa Maria Yoshida August 7, 2017·Singing·Online

Kari July 15, 2017·Singing·In home

I'd never taken vocal lessons before I met Emily so I had no idea what to expect.
My boyfriend starting working with her on his voice and vocal skills for about a year, and I noticed very significant changes in his voice fairly quickly. He sounded better every week, so I decided to start taking lessons as well.
I've always enjoyed singing, and used to sing socially when I was younger, but my job schedule really didn't allow for that anymore. To invest time and energy into myself, I decided to start singing again, and Emily is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She is very patient, and teaches a great technique - she explains everything is very tangible terms. She is also very intuitive and knows when you need a little push to move past any insecurities or fears that you may not hit a note. To round the experience out, she is a very fun person! After 7 lessons with her, I can very honestly say that I can sing much more freely and always look forward to my next lesson.
I cannot sing her praises enough, and highly recommend you schedule a lesson with her.

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Emily W.

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Emily W.

Online

(27)

starting at

$45
/ 30-min

About Kristin H.

I have studied this style of singing for over 20 years and I have taught Broadway and Musical singing as well as how to safely Belt for over 10 years. The technique is still from a classical background so all my students learn a variety of tools that will help them with this style as well as others. In all of my singing classes students learn technique, music theory, sight signing, and aural skills. They will also learn musicality and how to emotionally connect with their music.

About Kristin

I have a Master's in Acting and Directing and support fields in Music. I coach singing, acting, speech, and piano for a wide range of ages. I teach many styles of acting from stage to film and in between including Shakespeare I have studied a variety of methods on acting and will cater to the interests of my students. I have a degree in Speech and Communications as well as Performing arts and would love to help you with your public speaking or every day speech needs. I coach from two locations. A studio in SE Portland and from a studio in my home. I would love to talk with you further about your personal goals in regards with what you would like to study.

Thanks Kristin

*** Lesson Details ***I want my students to enjoy the arts but the music and acting is hard work. My students will be well rounded in their subjects and have

the opportunity to cross over if they would like.I pay attention to my students needs and wants. I would like students to be open minded about the work that they are being taught but I also want to take their interests to heart. If a student brings me music or a monologue that they would like to work on, I will review it and try to incorporate it within our studies.

Reviews

Clinton June 22, 2017·Public Speaking·In studio

Kristin is an excellent public speaking teacher. She combines voice instruction, with guidance on body language and delivery. I worked with her on several speeches and saw great results. Highly recommend her services.

Jeff May 8, 2017·Broadway Singing·In studio

Kristin is an excellent teacher. Very patient and very approachable. She is very knowledgeable in both theatre and music. She started me on basics such as breath control, support, and learning to sing as easily as possible. She was very attentive to my goals, in this case it was to learn as well as get ready for an audition for a local musical. I've had a great experience working with her an would recommend her highly. A+++

Taylor D. May 1, 2017·Speech·Online

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Kristin H.

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Kristin H.

Portland, OR 97214

(12)

starting at

$45
/ 50-min

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About Kayla D.

Students can expect to learn proper technique and build their repertoire. Students can expect to be performance ready within three lessons or less. Students will learn a strong work ethic and also how to have fun on stage.

About Kayla

My name's Kayla and I'm a voice teacher/actor/singer/dancer from Portland. I've got 16 years experience in the performing arts under my belt. I can teach all vocals styles : Classical,Jazz,Musical Theatre,Rock and Metal. I specialize in Rock and Metal vocals with an emphasis on vocal safety and technique. I'm also available for acting coaching and audition preparation. I also offer my opinions and an inside look into the performing arts whenever I can. With a couple years of touring under my belt and several professional shows as well as my experience in film, I hope that I can help to answer any questions you may have about choosing this as a career. Looking forward to working with you! - Kayla

...

Reviews

Tomoko November 3, 2016·Vocal Training·In studio

My daughter really enjoyed Kayla's lessons. She feels that her natural ability for singing was enhanced through her lessons. We definitely recommend her services.

AJ June 22, 2016·Singing·Online

Kayla is very informative and descriptive about how the body works in producing sound. She not only showed technique but also gave some easy tips on how to improve. Best of all, I finally understand how a raspy sound can occur without damaging the voice! This is a thing I've found difficulty in finding online, in a way that does not damage your vocal cords. All in all, a fun teacher and I recommend her, especially if you like rock/metal as she seems to have a great knowledge of this form of vocals.

Lindsey June 9, 2016·Singing·Online

Kayla is very thorough and knowledgeable. She made sure to finish the lesson, even going over a minute or two. Look forward to my next few lessons.

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Kayla D.

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Kayla D.

Portland, OR 97214

(14)

starting at

$25
/ 30-min

About Livi Y.

I'm a firm believer that we're all singers. The only difference is the ones of us that take time to learn how to use our instrument, our voice! I base our lessons on my students goals: what they want to learn and accomplish at the end of each lesson/series of lessons, perhaps working towards a performance coming up. I try and go over not only the singing, but the entire performance prep, including vocal health and exercises.

About Livi

Hey all! I'm Livi, a ukulele playing singer, songwriter, and music teacher living in beautiful Portland, OR. Learn more about me in my bio below, and hopefully meet you in person/online soon! XxoO, -Liv

Livi began taking piano lessons at a young age, and found her love for music watching a stage production of "The Sound Of Music" in Hong Kong where she grew up. After receiving her BA for Film & TV, with a concentration in Audio and Composition from SMU in Dallas, TX. This summer, she will be perusing a performance certificate at Berklee School of Music - Valencia, Spain campus.

Livi moved to California and began teaching music and film making, along with writing and performing all over Los Angeles. After falling in love with the Pacific Northwest at a friends wedding on the Willamette River, Livi moved to Portland and continued teach

ing private voice, piano, guitar, ukulele, violin, and cello lessons as well as group classes such as Kindermusik, Drama, Glee, Rock band, and Songwriting at several music schools in Portland and Vancouver, WA. Now, as a member of the Oregon Music Teachers Association (OMTA), Livi is ready to bring her passion for music and her creative style of teaching to help you find your love for music!

...

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Livi Y.

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Livi Y.

Portland, OR 97211

starting at

$40
/ 30-min

About Christina N.

I have a vast knowledge of vocal pedagogy and adapting my teaching strategy for various voice types and personalities. You can expect to receive a lesson that is tailored to your needs. I've taught students who have gone on to attend well-known music schools and if you are to work with me, we will work together toward your specific vocal and/or professional goals. My students will receive an emailed recording of their lessons and a recap of material mentioned. Above all, you can expect a fun and informative approach to learning the vocal arts!

About Christina

I'm a trained opera singer hailing from the great state of New Jersey. Currently finishing up my master's degree in vocal performance at Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, I am looking for students in the area to share my love of singing with. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Vocal Performance from William Paterson University in Wayne, New Jersey where I sang the role of Pamina in Die Zauberflöte. At Indiana University I've performed the role of Ellen Orford in Peter Grimes and appeared in the opera choruses of Dead Man Walking, Carmen, and Madama Butterfly.also at IU I've been featured in IU opera workshop as Mimì in La Bohème and Elisabetta in Don Carlo. For the last two summers I have also appeared as a soloist in Honegger’s King David and Haydn's Lord Nelson Mass with the IU summer chorus under the direction of Walter Huff a

nd Betsy Burleigh. My performance credits include Vivaldi’s Gloria and Mozart’s Coronation Mass, Requiem, and Vesperae solennes de confessore with the Choral Art Society of New Jersey, as well as selections from Bizet’s Carmen and Villa-Lobos’s Bachianas Brasileiras No. 5 as the Hershey Symphony Orchestra’s guest soloist in Hershey, Pennsylvania.

...

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Christina N.

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Christina N.

Online

starting at

$42
/ 30-min

About Marina H.

I am a professional operatic soprano who has performed leading roles with the San Francisco Opera, Los Angeles Opera, Pacific Opera Project and so many more. I recently relocated to NYC from LA, so my rates are on the low side as I build a new studio. I specialize in helping students relieve vocal tension and pressure, as well as teaching proper breath support and Bel Canto technique. During my training as an Adler Fellow at the San Francisco Opera, I performed everything from Sondheim to Wagner, and I firmly believe that with good technique, you can easily sing in any style, as I often do. I can work with any age of student, and I am excellent at balancing professionalism with accessibility. My lessons are a completely judgement free zone, your comfort and freedom to relate to me on your level are of the utmost importance. Most importantly, you WILL make progress in each lesson and you will leave feeling better and more confident after each lesson. Let's get to work!

About Marina

Do you want a professional, relatable, fun teacher who actually cares about your vocal progress? Are you struggling with your technique or feeling fatigued? Are you tired of paying teachers exorbitant rates and not seeing results? Benefit from my twelve years of experience as a professional opera singer and technical background to give yourself the edge for your upcoming auditions, school year or just for fun! I have sung leading roles at the San Francisco Opera, Los Angeles Opera, and so many more, and I know what it takes to make it on a professional level. I also know that singing is an intensely personal experience, and I provide a non-judgmental, relaxed environment that will help you flourish. Most importantly, I will teach you the basics of Bel Canto technique, with proper breath support, so that you can easily sing any style of m

usic without strain or pressure. I have studied with the top teachers and coaches in the nation as an Adler Fellow and I can address any vocal issues you throw at me, with zero judgement. I care deeply about my students progress, and we will make sure that you take away something from every lesson that helps you grow vocally.

...

Reviews

Iris August 4, 2017·Singing·Online

Marina is a natural teacher. She loves to share what she has learned about music and singing. She has a gift for sight reading, and memorizing, which she can do almost always at first read. Everyone in her studio has mutual respect, including her. She has been my student, but now, she is my teacher. With an open mind, she welcomes the chance to learn from others, including her students. She is highly qualified, with a BA in Music from California State University Long Beach, a Performing Arts degree from University of Southern California, a summer with Music Academy of the West, as well as the Merola and Adler programs with San Francisco Opera. An excellent performer, she gives 100% to all her roles, no matter how small, and helps other cast members and crew whenever she can. You will be very pleased at your progress, when you work with her.

Kathy July 21, 2017·Singing·In studio

Marina was the perfect teacher for my shy sixteen year old who loves to sing but had terrible stage fright! She really brought her out of her shell and made her feel comfortable, AND she'll be singing the lead in Little Shop of Horrors at school this fall!!!!! We are sad to see her go to New York and we miss her but know she had to follow her career. We love Marina!

Affordable

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Broadway Singing Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Broadway Singing instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Jeff

"Kristin is an excellent teacher. Very patient and very approachable. She is very knowledgeable in both theatre and music. She started me on basics such as

breath control, support, and learning to sing as easily as possible. She was very attentive to my goals, in this case it was to learn as well as get ready for an audition for a local musical. I've had a great experience working with her an would recommend her highly. A+++"

...

Portland, OR teacher:
Kristin H.

Review by Ann

"Fantastic teacher!"

Portland, OR teacher:
Kayla D.

Review by anastasia

"awsome and caring"

Portland, OR teacher:
Erin W.

Review by Janice Neer

"She's a lot of fun, I enjoyed the time I spent there. I can't wait until my next lesson."

Portland, OR teacher:
Julia V.

Review by Jeff

"Kristin is a great teacher. She's very patient and knowledgeable about musical theatre. I was nervous at my first lesson. But she listened to my expectati

ons and what I wanted out of the lessons, and tailored the lesson to those expectations. Plus she gave me vocal excercises to help me a better singer, have fun, and enjoy the whole experience. Highly recommended."

...

Portland, OR teacher:
Kristin H.

Review by Ella

"She was fantastic! Jumped right in to help my daughter prepare an audition piece."